On Greece’s idyllic Kourouta beach, Athens-based k-studio has converted a derelict wine factory from the 1920s into the Dexamenes Seaside Hotel, a stunning boutique hotel with enviable views of the sea in the western Peloponnese. Elegant, minimalist and site-sensitive, the adaptive reuse project pays homage to the region’s wine-making tradition by preserving and showcasing the original industrial design while weaving in contemporary elements with a complementary palette of concrete, steel, timber and engineered glass. Over 30 wine tanks have also been transformed into new luxury suites ranging from 483 square feet to 645 square feet.

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vine plants growing beside a concrete building

When k-studio was tapped to revive an abandoned wine factory into a hotel by Dexamenes owner Nikos Karaflos, the architects began with a site study and careful removal of the concrete wine tanks. After new water features and a vineyard with local grape and currant varieties were added into the central courtyard, the original elements, such as reclaimed brick, that had been removed were also carefully reinserted. These elements were then complemented with new additions such as locally crafted bespoke ceramic tiles crafted to blend in with the originals. Thoughtful design injects contemporary flair and functionality into the new hotel while preserving the factory’s character.

Related: Bohemian island hotel with fresh natural furnishings offers simple leisure in Mykonos

pathway leading to a large, old wine tank
property with one-story concrete buildings and a wine tank in the middle

Accessed via a discreet entrance from the adjacent road, the Dexamenes Seaside Hotel greets guests with two glass pavilions attached to original concrete tank buildings that flow into a central courtyard and garden. Thirty-four concrete wine tanks have been repurposed into hotel suites, including nine sea-facing beachfront suites, 17 courtyard suites and 8 backyard suites with limited views. The Dexamenes Seaside Hotel also includes two original stone outbuildings converted into in-house dining and event facilities.

large beige bed in front of a stone wall
round wicker chairs on a covered patio facing the sea

The architects said, “From the outset it was clear that the strong history and raw beauty of the existing buildings should not only be preserved, but be showcased in a design that would breathe new life into their walls.”

+ k-studio

Photography by Claus Brechenmacher & Reiner Baumann via k-studio